OBJECTIVETo provide further research with literature evidence of the variety origin, traditional effect and dosage.

METHODTextual research on medicinal works of past dynasties.

RESULTThe origin plants are Pueraria lobata, P. thomosonii and P. eduli. Its present effect is the same as ancient literature. However the fresh juice of the plant used for the treatment of bitter by mad dog and aborticide as literature recorded should be proved by further researches. The dosage is different among past dynasties.

CONCLUSIONAs one of the often used Chinese materia medica, Gegen has a bright prospect.